CHLH260 Week3 Project
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School
University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign *
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Course
260
Subject
Philosophy
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
4
Uploaded by BailiffBravery6229
"The Sea Inside" (original title: "Mar Adentro") is a film based on the true story
of Ramón Sampedro, who was left quadriplegic after a diving accident and
fought for 28 years for the right to end his own life with dignity. This film
presents several ethical dilemmas, which can be analyzed through different
ethical theories. Below is a structured outline for your assignment based on
this film:
Ethical Theory #1: Utilitarianism
- Media Source Dilemma Analysis:
- The film presents a dilemma that aligns with utilitarian principles – the
debate over euthanasia and the greater good.
- Example: Ramón Sampedro’s choice to fight for euthanasia may be seen as
a bid to minimize suffering, which could be argued to contribute to the
greatest good for himself and relieve the emotional and financial burden on
his family.
- Reasoning:
- The utilitarian perspective would assess the consequences of Ramón’s
continued life against his wish versus the consequences of granting his desire
for euthanasia.
- Example: By focusing on the outcome of Ramón’s choice for himself and
those around him, one could argue that the film demonstrates a utilitarian
approach to the question of personal suffering and the collective well-being of
involved parties.
Ethical Theory #2: Deontology
- Media Source Dilemma Analysis:
- The film also touches upon deontological ethics, particularly the sanctity of
life and the duties to preserve it.
- Example: The legal system and some of the characters uphold the principle
that life should be preserved regardless of the individual's suffering, reflecting
a deontological stance.
- Reasoning:
- The deontological argument is centered around the moral rule that
euthanasia is wrong, irrespective of the consequences.
- Example: Ramón’s struggle against the legal and societal rules that prevent
him from making what he perceives as a dignified choice illustrates the
tension between deontological duty-based ethics and individual autonomy.
Ethical Theory #3: Virtue Ethics
- Media Source Dilemma Analysis:
- Virtue ethics focuses on Ramón's character and moral virtues such as
courage, compassion, and wisdom.
- Example: Ramón's determination to confront his condition and advocate for
his choice exemplifies virtues of fortitude and autonomy, central to virtue
ethics.
- Reasoning:
- Virtue ethics would look at the character of Ramón and his relationships
with others to evaluate the ethical dimensions of his quest.
- Example: The film delves into the virtues and character development of
Ramón and those around him, such as the compassion of his lawyer and the
conflict within his family, revealing the complex interplay of personal
character and ethical decision-making.
Connection to the Media Source:
- Utilize specific scenes to demonstrate how these ethical theories are
represented in the film. For example, when Ramón argues with the priest, it
showcases a conflict between secular moral reasoning and religious
deontological ethics.
- The conversation Ramón has with his family members who oppose his
wishes brings to light both utilitarian and virtue ethics considerations as it
explores the implications for everyone involved.
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